Hormonal hair loss: Causes, treatment, and prevention

Wellbeing

Hair is often more than just a style statement – it can be a barometer of your health. For many women, noticing thinning hair or increased shedding can feel distressing, especially when the root cause is tied to something seemingly out of their control: hormones. 

Hormonal hair loss is a common concern, but the good news is that understanding its causes and solutions, and taking action such as seeking scalp treatment in Singapore, can empower you to take control. In this article, we’ll dive into how hormones influence hair growth, the major hormonal shifts that can trigger hair loss in women, and effective strategies to prevent and treat hair loss.  

Understanding hormones and hair growth

Hormones play a critical role in regulating the hair growth cycle, which consists of three phases:

  1. Anagen (growth phase): Hair actively grows during this phase, which can last several years.
  2. Catagen (transition phase): This short, transitional phase lasts a few weeks when hair stops growing.
  3. Telogen (resting phase): Hair rests before eventually shedding and being replaced by new growth (1).

The balance of hormones – particularly androgens (like testosterone) and estrogen – affects how smoothly this cycle runs. For example:

  • Androgens: While small amounts of androgens are normal for women, excess levels can shrink hair follicles and slow hair growth, leading to thinning or bald patches.
  • Estrogen: Often considered the “hair-friendly” hormone, estrogen decreases the number of hairs shed, resulting in fuller, thicker hair. However, when estrogen levels drop, shedding can increase.2

Let’s explore the specific life events and conditions where hormonal fluctuations may throw the hair growth cycle off balance.

Major hormonal changes that can trigger hair loss in women

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Pregnancy and postpartum hair loss

Pregnancy often feels like a golden age for your hair. Elevated estrogen levels during pregnancy extend the growth phase, giving you thicker, fuller hair.2 However, the months following childbirth can tell a different story.

After delivery, estrogen levels plummet, pushing many hairs into the telogen phase simultaneously. This phenomenon, called postpartum telogen effluvium, causes noticeable shedding, usually lasting six to twenty-four weeks postpartum. 2

Though unsettling, postpartum hair loss is temporary. 2 Most women find their hair returns to its pre-pregnancy state, but proactive care can help speed up recovery.  

Menopause

Menopause marks a significant hormonal shift as the body produces less estrogen while androgen levels may remain the same or even increase. 2 This imbalance can lead to:

  • Thinning hair: A result of a shorter anagen phase.
  • Androgenic alopecia: Characterized by diffuse thinning at the crown or temples (2).

Hair loss during menopause is gradual but can feel permanent if left unmanaged. Understanding the changes happening in your body is the first step to finding solutions.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is marked by elevated androgen levels, which can wreak havoc on your hair (2). Women with PCOS often experience female pattern hair loss, characterized by:

  • Widening of the part line.
  • Diffuse thinning, particularly on the top of the scalp (2).

Other symptoms like acne and irregular periods can make PCOS particularly challenging, but with proper management, hair loss can improve.

Treatment and management strategies 

Joyful woman in white robe treats her hair roots for better growth applying nourishing serum or oil via dropper, caring for herself in modern bathroom, smiling to camera

While hormonal hair loss can feel overwhelming, there are effective treatments and lifestyle changes that can make a difference.

Addressing the underlying cause

The first step in treating hormonal hair loss is identifying the root cause. A healthcare provider can run tests to determine if hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, or other medical conditions are at play. 

Medical treatments

  • Topical minoxidil: This hair loss treatment promotes blood flow to the scalp and encourages hair follicles to stay in the growth phase longer. 
  • Anti-androgens: Medications like spironolactone can block androgen activity, preventing hair follicle shrinkage. These medications are usually prescribed alongside oral contraceptives to prevent pregnancy while taking anti-androgens (3).

Scalp care

A healthy scalp is the foundation for hair growth. Invest in products that nourish the scalp and stimulate blood flow, such as:

  • Scalp massages with oils like rosemary or peppermint.
  • Exfoliating scalp scrubs to remove buildup and improve follicle health.
  • Gentle shampoos and conditioners free from harsh sulfates and silicones.

Dietary changes

Your diet plays a critical role in hair health. Make sure to include foods rich in:

  • Protein: A diet low in protein can lead to hair thinning and hair loss. Incorporate eggs, lean meats, and legumes into your diet.
  • Iron and zinc: Found in leafy greens, red meat, and nuts, these minerals are essential in preventing hair loss.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds, they promote a healthy scalp.
  • Biotin and vitamin D: These nutrients support hair strength and growth (4).

Lifestyle changes

  • Reduce stress: Chronic stress can disrupt hormone levels and lead to hair loss. Practices like yoga, meditation, or regular exercise can help.
  • Gentle hair care: Avoid harsh chemicals, heat styling, and tight hairstyles that can further damage hair. Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to maintain scalp health.

Get help for hormonal hair loss

Hormonal hair loss can feel overwhelming, but understanding its causes and treatment options can make a world of difference. Whether you’re experiencing postpartum shedding, menopausal thinning, or PCOS-related hair loss, know that you’re not alone – and solutions are available.

By addressing the underlying cause and taking a holistic approach to hair care, you can restore not only your hair but also your confidence. Hair is deeply tied to our identity, and with the right strategies, you can embrace your healthiest self.

Bibliography

  1. Natarelli, N., Gahoonia, N., & Sivamani, R. K. (2023). Integrative and mechanistic approach to the hair growth cycle and hair loss. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 12(3), 893. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12030893 
  1. Grymowicz, M., Rudnicka, E., Podfigurna, A., Napierala, P., Smolarczyk, R., Smolarczyk, K., & Meczekalski, B. (2020). Hormonal effects on hair follicles. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 21(15), 5342. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21155342 
  1. Harvard Health. (2024, April 8). Treating female pattern hair loss. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/treating-female-pattern-hair-loss 
  1. Guo, E. L., & Katta, R. (2017). Diet and hair loss: Effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use. Dermatology Practical & Conceptual, 1–10. https://doi.org/10.5826/dpc.0701a01